THE multi-million PNG LNG Project developer Esso Highlands Ltd is the major sponsor for Papua New Guinea Kumuls to the 2013 World Cup in England in October.Esso Highlands Ltd managing director Peter Graham announced the sponsorship – in a press conference held at the PNG LNG Plant site at Konebada – to support Kumuls as they prepare for the World Cup under the guidance of Team Kumuls coaching director Mal Meninga.Minister for Sports Justin Tkatchencko and the Team Kumul players and managers were also in attendance.Graham said the PNG LNG Project recognised how important rugby league was in Papua New Guinea.“We understand that Papua New Guinea is the only country in the world with rugby league as the national sport,” he said. “It is a powerful force for national unity and pride.“The project recognises the potential for the Kumuls, as ambassadors and role models, to have a positive influence on Papua New Guinean youth in particular, and we are pleased to contribute to the progress of the Kumuls. “We will be cheering them on to victory.”Graham said he hoped the project’s sponsorship of the Kumuls would help people appreciate the PNG LNG Project is not just about natural gas production.“The PNG LNG Project is also about delivering sustainable, long-term benefits for all project stakeholders, contributing to economic growth and strengthening the resilience of communities across Papua New Guinea.“This partnership will bring together two organisations that are committed to the values of teamwork, respect, personal integrity and excellence,” he said.Meninga said the team’s involvement with the PNG LNG Project was a natural fit.“The PNG LNG Project is a leader in its field, which is something the Kumuls also strive to be. “We are delighted to welcome them on board as a major sponsor and have them along with us on our journey to the Rugby League World Cup,” the Queensland Maroons coach said.